Which degree of burn affects only the epidermis?

A first-degree burn affects only the epidermis, which is the outermost layer of the skin. This type of burn results in redness, slight swelling, and pain, but does not damage the deeper layers of the skin. Common examples include mild sunburns or minor scalds. Since the burn is limited to the epidermis, the healing process is typically quick, often resolving within a few days without significant scarring.

In contrast, second-degree burns penetrate deeper into the dermis and can cause blisters and more intense pain. Third-degree burns extend through both the epidermis and dermis and can damage underlying tissues, often resulting in a loss of sensation in the affected area due to nerve damage. Fourth-degree burns are the most severe, penetrating through all skin layers and affecting underlying structures like muscle and bone. Each of these higher degree burns involves more extensive damage and requires more complex treatment, unlike a first-degree burn, which is relatively minor and self-limiting.